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Concerns Grow Over Drone Data Breach Risks
The vice president of the Indiana Farm Bureau, Kendell Culp, has reported an increasing apprehension among farmers regarding the risks associated with drone data collection.
While acknowledging the operational efficiencies that drones have brought to agricultural practices such as spraying and seeding, Culp has highlighted data security as an escalating concern for producers. “These tools can be beneficial, but they pose significant risks if data breaches occur,” he stated.
Culp noted that the technology has rapidly evolved, transitioning from novelty to commonplace in a relatively short timeframe, and emphasizes the continuous improvements that bring new capabilities to drone technology.
Producers have raised particular alarms about drone use for surveillance purposes, especially amidst regional challenges such as avian influenza. “In northeast Indiana, the presence of drones or similar aircraft has sparked considerable concern among farmers who worry about unauthorized monitoring,” Culp elaborated.
As agricultural technology continues to march forward, the safeguarding of data and privacy remains paramount to leveraging these advancements effectively within the industry. The potential for unauthorized access to sensitive data can have far-reaching consequences not only for individual farmers but for the agricultural sector as a whole.
Culp shared these insights during the 2025 Indiana Ag Threats and Security Summit, wherein the intersection of technology and farming cybersecurity was a focal point of discussion.
AUDIO: Kendell Culp
In an era where aerial technology is increasingly prevalent in agriculture, understanding the implications of data breaches connected to this innovation is crucial for stakeholders across the industry. The potential for adversaries to exploit these tools aligns with tactics outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, such as initial access through unauthorized systems and data exfiltration strategies that could maneuver through agricultural networks. It is essential for business owners to remain vigilant and proactive about cybersecurity measures to safeguard their operations against potential vulnerabilities and breaches.
